But now that same vehicle, previously referred to as a "war wagon" by county administrator Steve Marvin, has been acquired by Washington Township, N.J. and will be available to Burke and the rest of the county when it is needed.

"I think it's great," Burke said. "As long as it's in the county and it's something that can be utilized when necessary."

Police chief James McDonald said he approached the township committee in September after freeholders declined Burke's idea and requested that a mechanic inspect the vehicle.

McDonald said the township found it to be both mechanically and structurally sound and then formally acquired the vehicle in January through a donation from the Bergen County Police Department.

McDonald said while the vehicle will be the property of the township, it will be readily available countywide when needed.

McDonald said the truck, which he refers to as a "rescue vehicle," is now ready for road use after the township received $2,000 in donated funds from local companies to refurbish it.

While freeholders declined Burke's request on the notion that it would cost an estimated $20,000 in annual maintenance costs, McDonald said he imagines the vehicle will only need an occasional oil change since its use will be limited to emergencies and training exercises.

Freeholder Jason Sarnoski said while he stands by the decision made by the board at the time, he's glad to see the township was able to make it work.

"I wish Washington Township the best of luck with it," Sarnoski said. "I hope we never need it."

In addition to concerns over the price tag of maintenance, some officials have previously questioned the need for such a heavily-armored vehicle in a rural county.

McDonald noted the recent hostage standoff in the Boston area as evidence of the truck's worth.

If a civilian or officer were to be shot during an ongoing situation, the vehicle would give authorities a safe way to transport the victim to a safe place to receive medical treatment, he said.

For Burke, the vehicle's value is of little debate.

"If it's used one or two times and saves a life, it's well worth it," Burke said.